Taking a break - where do I go from here?

October of 2018, I started dating a man who was a coworker and long time friend. I am a bit older than him - me being 28, him 21. But nonetheless, he is pretty mature for his age and we have always gotten along really well. We have a lot in common, both share similar hobbies and have the same quirky sense of humor. I not only have considered him a boyfriend but also my best friend.

Despite a few ups and downs (what relationship doesnt have these), we were doing very well and enjoying new experiences together. One day out of the blue in the end of June, he sent me a text message at 2 AM, saying that he needed time alone. Not sure what to make of this, I replied that was okay, but that I asked that if he was going to break up with me, to please not do so over text. He explained that he needed me and didnt want to let me go, but that the relationship was getting serious and he just wasnt ready to be tied down this young. So I backed off and gave him space, focusing on my own goals.

Fast forward to July 4th - he proposed we take a break from dating for the time being. I agreed, thinking some space would do both of us some good. He was very adamant that he did not want it to be completely over, and that he mainly wanted time to enjoy being 21 and not worry about doing anything that could hurt me. I understood, and let it be. Not even a few days later, he called me. He said that he still wanted to hang out and spend time together even though he didnt want to date right now. I was hesitant, but I agreed. We typically see each other at least once a week outside of work. We have had sex a few times since then as well. About two weeks ago, he went on vacation with his family and insisted I go. I did, and all seemed to go well. We hung out again last weekend. Ever since then, we have only spoken casually at work. He asked me to hang out on Thursday, but I denied him, saying I had some things to work on at home. Its now been four days since weve communicated at all, and I am so confused about what to do next and feeling down about the situation.

Im very torn, because I dont want to fall into the trap of becoming merely friends with benefits with this person - its not at all when I want for myself and I know I deserve better than that - but I also dont want to lose the connection we have had. Before I agreed to go on vacation with him and his family, he mentioned in conversation that maybe one day I would be his wife. In my heart, I want to keep fighting for this. We have been battle tested before and I could see myself having a future with him. But I also have learned not to just trust someones words, and I dont want to wait around and end up wasting time and prolonging the heartbreak on someone who may or may not commit.

I am planning to tell him how I feel - that Im not content with this half in, half out situation and that I want to cut contact for now.. but is that the right move? It will be very difficult to go completely no contact since we currently work together (although we are both seeking new jobs). I intend to at least remove him from Snapchat (which he uses to communicate the most) and spend more time on my own hobbies and goals. It will also be very difficult for me because I have considered him my best friend got so long, and I dont really have anyone else around that I do spend as much time with. Just need some advice on how I should move forward.